Canine Blood Donors

Two Minute Dog Advice guest columnist Wendy Nan Rees raises awareness of the need for canine blood donors. Find out just how easy it is for most dogs to donate.

Did you know your dog may be the perfect blood donor?

That's right, you just read blood donor, and the world of dogs needs more good canine citizens to help other dogs in need. This may sound like a bit of a squeamish proposition, but it's not as bad as it sounds, especially if your vet is good at keeping your dog calm.

My Lab Senny and I visit our vet to donate blood each year, but dogs can actually donate up to four times a year. Here's our routine.

After a brief physical exam, Senny is placed on his side with his front paw out so the vet can find the best vein. I usually rub Senny's tummy to keep him busy while the vet inserts the line. The room is very quiet with a relaxed atmosphere, so I always use the time for bonding with Senny.

My vet usually takes about 450 milliliters of blood and mixes it with an anti-coagulant. When he's finished, the vet removes the line, makes sure the bleeding has stopped and gives Senny a bandage. As long as there's no more bleeding, we're all done. Senny needs to take it easy the rest of the day, but other than that, that is all there is to it. The entire procedure from preparation to finish only takes about 45 minutes.

Right now, only medium-large to large dog breeds can become canine blood donors. This is because the current size of the blood packs are not manufactured small enough for little dogs. Smaller pets are also more likely to suffer after effects from donating blood, so it's best to leave the job to the larger dogs that can recuperate quicker from the procedure.

In addition to size, your dog's temperament also matters. Is your dog fairly relaxed about going to the vet? Is he comfortable with his doctor? If so, you can ask your vet to evaluate your dog as a potential blood donor. The vet will make the decision based on your dog's size and current health, as well as his stress level during the exam.

Your own feelings are also very important to the procedure. If you're nervous, your dog will pick up on those feelings and become more anxious himself. So as you can see, you need to feel calm and assured about the experience to help your dog through it. The calmer you are, the better off Fido will be.

Donating blood is mutually beneficial for both donors and the dogs that eventually receive the blood. Donors receive a full blood panel, kidney check and basic physical exam at no charge. Just think how much this type of exam might cost otherwise. Some vets even offer their canine blood donors a goodie bag of treats once the procedure if over.

As for the dogs that receive the blood, the benefits are immeasurable. Your dog's gift may help a sick dog or a dog that faces a life threatening injury from an accident. The blood harvested from just one donor dog can help up to four needy animals.

Dogs are very smart, and trust me, they know when they are helping. By donating blood for other dogs, you are both doing a wonderful service for the canine community. Please give it some consideration.

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